Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a form of pain therapy injection. It is a medical procedure that interrupts pain impulses in targeted nerves along the spine to relieve intractable pain. The technique uses radiofrequency currents to generate thermal energy to destroy the nerve tissue responsible for the transmission of pain signals.
How does Radiofrequency Ablation work?
During radiofrequency ablation, also known as radiofrequency neurotomy, a small hollow needle is inserted into a nerve, and an electrode is inserted into the needle. Radio waves that generate heat are transmitted through the electrode, effectively creating a lesion on the nerve and preventing it from relaying pain signals to the brain. Nearby nerves are not harmed in the process.
What does Radiofrequency Ablation treat?
The goal of RFA is to reduce pain, improve mobility, decrease reliance on pain medications, and potentially delay the need for surgery.
RFA may be a suitable option for patients who have experienced pain relief after a nerve block injection, such as a facet joint injection, indicating the nerve in that area is likely the source of pain. It is particularly effective for patients with chronic pain that has not responded to conventional treatments, such as medication or physical therapy.
Common conditions that may benefit from RFA therapy include:
- Facet joint pain
- Chronic neck or lower back pain
- Trigeminal neuralgia, severe facial pain
- Arthritis pain in the spine or sacroiliac joint
- Sacroiliitis, inflammation of the sacroiliac joint
How often can Radiofrequency Ablation be administered?
Patients can generally expect pain relief to last for six months to a year after RFA therapy. However, because nerve endings can regenerate, some patients may require repeat procedures every six months or more for continued pain relief.
What are the possible complications of Radiofrequency Ablation?
While RFA is generally considered safe, it is not without risks. The most common side effect is temporary discomfort at the injection site.
Other potential complications include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage from the needle placement
- Burns from improper grounding pad placement
Are there any contraindications for Radiofrequency Ablation?
Patients with increased intracranial pressure or a localized infection at the injection site should not undergo this procedure. Caution is advised in patients who are pregnant, have active infections, have bleeding disorders, or are taking anticoagulants.
Conclusion
Radiofrequency ablation may be a viable option for patients suffering from chronic pain conditions that have proven resistant to traditional treatments. By targeting specific nerves responsible for pain transmission, RFA can offer significant pain relief and improve quality of life for many patients.
How does radiofrequency ablation compare with injection therapies for pain control? Check out our Summary and Comparison Chart.
Sources:
- Radiofrequency Ablation – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): What It Is & Procedure (clevelandclinic.org)
- Facet Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment – Centers for Neurosurgery, Spine & Orthopedics (cnsomd.com)
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